Sexual assault group questions past release of suspect
The Avalon Sexual Assault Centre is speaking out, saying they're worried that the Nova Scotia justice system is endangering public safety by releasing alleged sexual offenders into the community.
On Wednesday, David James Leblanc, 47, was charged with sexual assault and forcible confinement, nearly two years after he was charged with other sex charges.
Leblanc was charged with making and distributing child pornography, sexual assault and sexual interference in early 2011. The case was postponed but Leblanc was not kept in custody. He was freed on a number of strict conditions, including staying away from computers, children and the places they frequent.
“Children are vulnerable members of society and deserve to be protected from sexual predators,” said Avalon Sexual Assault Centre Executive Director Irene Smith in a press release.
“Nova Scotians should question why the justice system decided to release Leblanc.”
Police have launched a massive manhunt to find Leblanc and Wayne Alan Cunningham, 31, both charged with sexual assault and forcible confinement of a youth in Upper Chelsea, N.S.
"Society expects that the courts assess whether a perpetrator will reoffend,” said Smith. “By releasing Leblanc, it suggests that the courts don’t think sexualized violence is a serious issue.”
In the release, the Avalon centre said they hope the alleged teen victim gets the support he needs.
